In the heart of a vibrant city, Mr. Jenkins and Max uncover more than just cultural treasures. Bound by their shared passion for anthropology and art restoration, their journey takes an unexpected turn when a stormy night unravels a web of deception. As Max's desire for a profound discovery intertwines with Mr. Jenkins' protective instincts, they confront Liam Cleary, a charming gallery owner whose allure masks sinister intentions. When a counterfeit painting sparks their investigation, Max's disappearance plunges Mr. Jenkins into a perilous pursuit through the city's shadows. In a race against time, Mr. Jenkins delves into a world of danger and deception, where every encounter reveals new mysteries. With Max's resilience tested and Mr. Jenkins' resolve pushed to its limits, they must navigate treacherous paths and confront unexpected adversaries to uncover the truth. As the stakes rise and betrayals loom, Max's captivity ignites a journey of self-discovery, while Mr. Jenkins confronts his deepest fears and hidden desires. In a daring rescue orchestrated by unlikely allies, they emerge from the shadows forever changed. "Stolen" is a gripping tale of love, loss, and redemption, where the bonds of friendship and the power of discovery illuminate the darkest corners of the human heart.

“Have you ever hurt a woman?” I knew what she meant but decided to play dumb, “Well, I would like to believe that I have wounded some of their hearts…” I replied then with a tell-tale wink added, “…and hurt at least some of them to their liking.” She had the nerves to look annoyed! She rephrased the question, “Have you ever, intentionally, physically hurt a woman in a way that caused her distress or physical injury?” -“No” -“A child?” -“No” -“An old person?” -“No” -“Have you ever sexually assaulted a woman…” -“I believe, I have already answered this question…” I cut in, unable to control anymore. Unfezed by my protest she finished her question, “...or became an accessory in it or, helped someone to get away with it, willingly or unknowingly?” -“No” -“A child?” She had no idea how much danger she was in. I somehow controlled the rage that was threatening to surface and said, “No” Her interrogation was over, but I was just getting started. -“That’s it?” I asked and she looked confused. -“So it’s alright for me to assault people unless they are women, children or old men?” I prodded. At least she had the decency to look ashamed. "Just because I said that I did not, can you be sure that I actually never did hurt any of the people you just listed? What makes you think that a master deceiver like me would be honest with you?" “What if I killed a hundred men, savaged women double that number, brutally mistreated an innumerable number of children, yet lied to your face? Is my “no” enough for you to let go of that suspicion? Are you that gullible? Or is your ego that easily satisfied, because the salary that I am paying you is too difficult to let go of? ...Can you be sure that I am not shuffling through ways of torturing you in my mind, right at this moment…and that once I am done shuffling I would not turn your life into a living hell?” I couldn't recollect crossing the distance from my chair to hers and towering over her in my blinding rage, but when I realized what I was doing and prepared to back off, she surprised me with her reply... *** Please express you opinion about the story in the comments. Follow me if you like the book.